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Report a problem with a tree

We're responsible for maintaining and inspecting council owned trees in:

streets

parks and open spaces

cemeteries

We inspect our trees periodically, to make sure they're safe and in a healthy condition. Our programme for inspections varies according to the age of the trees, the condition, the location and species. Sometimes we remove trees to redevelop an area, or clear parts of our parks and woodland to make way for new species.

Trees in gardens, or on other private land, are the responsibility of the owner. If a tree in a neighbouring property is causing you problems you should take it up with the owner.

You have a right to prune any overhanging branches from council or privately owned trees back to the boundary of your property, unless it's a protected tree or you live in a conservation area.You'll be responsible for disposing of the prunings properly, either in your green bin or at a waste and recycling centre.

Tree Preservation Orders and conservation areas

We also have a duty to protect some trees and woodland in certain areas.

You'll need our permission to remove or prune a tree if it's a protected tree, or you live in a conservation area.

If you've applied for planning permission and are intending to remove any trees as part of the project, you'll need to check with us first to find out if they're protected.

What we'll do

When we receive your form, we'll inspect the tree and let you know what action we're going to take. If it's not possible, or practical, for us to carry out the work you've requested we'll let you know the reasons why.

We'll always check trees to avoid disturbing nesting birds, before starting any work between March and October. In addition, we'll only work on certain trees with dense crowns in winter, when the nesting season ends.